14 DAY TRIAL // Many companies have been talking about the Internet of Things, and its implications for the future, but most of the news has still been about the normal stuff. Not anymore though. LG is making its contribution in the form of a Smart Lamp.
And here you'll ask how a lamp could possibly be smart, beyond the presumable ability to turn on and off via motion sensing.
LG has the answer: a lamp that can blink when you get a phone call or text message on your smartphone. LG made it so that the light connects to phones via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing it to always be synced with the mobile device.
In addition to control over light intensity, the user will enjoy a light-based alarm clock and a security mode that has the light pretend you're at home.
It's basically the principle opposite that of “lights are off, nobody's home.” Thieves and burglars aren't likely to try and break into your place if the light is on.
And if the light also changes intensity at various intervals, even without you in the house, then all the more reason for would-be criminals to stay away.
The core of LG's announcement is still the part about mobile synchronization though. In addition to pulsing when you receive a call, the light can pulse to the beat of the music.
That's about all there is to say really, not counting the power consumption, which is of 10W and, thus, quite low.
No mention of NFC is made, so you'll probably have to go through the standard, OS- or app-based process of establishing a sustained Bluetooth or Wi-Fi link between your smart device and the Smart Bulb.
On the flip side, it also means that guests won't be able to just tap their phone against your lamp and use it for themselves. It will definitely help avoid potential chaos at parties, if nothing else.
The best part about all this is that the LG Smart Bulb is self-sustained. It doesn't matter what kind of old lamp or chandelier you have. If the socket is compatible and the power source suitable, you've got yourself a glowing assistant ready to cater to your needs.
Granted, the LG Smart Bulb does cost a few bucks, around $32 (35,000 won), €23.23, a fair bit more than ordinary LED bulbs, but that's to be expected. There is a lot more hardware involved in its construction after all. There are no color options though, so keep that in mind if you're not a party person.